Gateron CAP Anniversary vs. Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring
An in-depth look at the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring mechanical keyboard switches, you will find yourself faced with a decision between a linear and a tactile switch, each offering unique benefits. The CAP Anniversary switch is praised for its exceptionally smooth keystrokes, thanks to its innovative CAP structure and aerodynamically designed stem, making it perfect for those seeking a snappy, creamy, and polished typing experience. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch provides a medium level of tactility with a lower actuation and bottom-out force, offering a bouncy typing feel and a deep, thocky sound profile. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
48g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated 20mm spring
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The CAP Anniversary and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring both feature a polycarbonate top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic that creates a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that plan to use RGB lighting. However, the CAP Anniversary utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring employs a polycarbonate bottom housing, contributing to a sharper and higher-pitched sound profile similar to its top housing material.
While both the CAP Anniversary and the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring share a polycarbonate top housing, they differ in their bottom housing materials. The split between the top and bottom housings allows for a unique typing experience, with the qualities of each material being felt in different aspects of the key press. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel, impacting the overall typing experience. Conversely, the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key, further enhancing the auditory feedback. This division of housing materials showcases how different combinations can create diverse typing experiences for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
In conclusion, the choice of housing materials greatly impacts the sound profile and feel of a mechanical switch. The use of polycarbonate in both the top and bottom housing of the CAP Anniversary and the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring results in a consistent sound profile throughout the key press. However, the incorporation of nylon in the CAP Anniversary's bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring delivers a sharper and crisper sound. Ultimately, the combination of housing materials in mechanical switches plays a crucial role in defining the overall typing experience for users.
Weight
In comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch, we see that the CAP Anniversary is heavier with an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, while the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring is lighter with an actuation force of 48 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams. With the CAP Anniversary being medium-heavy and the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring being medium-light, users can choose based on their preference for a lighter or heavier typing experience. Those who prefer a more substantial push may opt for the CAP Anniversary, while those looking for a lighter touch may lean towards the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring. Both switches offer a different typing experience due to their varying actuation and bottom out forces, providing users with options based on their desired typing feel.
Travel distance
The Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When pressing down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience the same amount of travel distance. This means that whether you are typing with the CAP Anniversary or the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring, you can expect similar results in terms of the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom. Overall, both switches offer a consistent and standard travel distance, providing a familiar typing experience for users.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron CAP Anniversary has an MSRP of $4.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the CAP Anniversary for $4.10.
The Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring for $3.57.
Here at Milktooth, we offer the best prices on switches (on average, 27% lower the competition). In addition, we offer free shipping on orders over $49.00. We also offer free returns and exchanges, so you can shop with guaranteed satisfaction.
That said, while price is an important piece of the puzzle, our opinion is that you should ultimately pick the option that most suits your unique preferences since you’ll be using these switches for years to come. In other words, finding something perfect for you is, in our view, the most important criteria.
Typing experience
In terms of sound, the CAP Anniversary switch is known for its quiet operation, with a muffled sound profile that minimizes typing noise. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch offers a deeper and more resonant "thocky" sound, providing a satisfying auditory feedback for typists. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by the keyboard chassis and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the CAP Anniversary switch is often described as having a snappy and responsive feel, thanks to its unique aerodynamic stem design and smooth keystrokes. Additionally, the switch is known for its stability and minimal wobble during typing, enhancing the overall typing experience. In contrast, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch offers a bouncy and elastic feedback sensation, providing typists with a spring-like feel and lively key response.
In conclusion, if you prefer a quieter typing experience with a smooth and stable feel, the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch might be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a deeper and more resonant sound profile coupled with a bouncy and elastic key feel, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch could be the perfect fit. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so selecting the right switch ultimately depends on your personal typing style and preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you prioritize smoothness and stability in your keystrokes, the CAP Anniversary with its unique CAP structure and aerodynamic design is a great choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with a medium level of tactility and a deep, thocky sound profile, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring may be more to your liking. Ultimately, your decision should be based on what type of typing feel and sound profile you desire in your mechanical keyboard switches.
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